How many SITA bursaries are awarded each year?

SITA awards 20 bursaries each year to students studying ICT-related qualifications, with a focus on building a pipeline of public-sector ICT talent.

Which fields does the SITA bursary cover?

Computer Science (including AI specialisation), Cyber Security, Data Science, Information Technology, and Diplomas in ICT Application Development or ICT Communication Networks.

What academic average is required?

You need a minimum overall average of 65% and must be registered for 2nd year of study or higher in the relevant ICT qualification.

Are there any preferences in the SITA selection process?

Preference is given to students with disabilities, and to White, Coloured and Indian students, as part of SITA's effort to advance balanced representation in the ICT pipeline.

Computer Science & IT

SITA Bursary Programme

State Information Technology Agency (SITA)

The State Information Technology Agency awards 20 bursaries each year to South African ICT students, building a pipeline of computer science, AI, cyber security and data science graduates for the public sector.

Amount: Full tuition + accommodation + meals + allowances + work-integrated learning
Deadline: To be announced
Duration: Remainder of degree duration (typically 2nd year onwards)
Renewable: Yes

2027 applications not yet open

Visit official site

Eligible Fields of Study

State Information Technology Agency (SITA) supports students in the following disciplines

Computer Science

Computer Science (AI specialisation)

Cyber Security

Data Science

Information Technology

ICT in Application Development (Diploma)

ICT in Communication Networks (Diploma)

Eligibility Requirements

✓ South African citizen
✓ Completed Matric
✓ Currently studying toward an ICT qualification at a public tertiary institution
✓ Registered for 2nd year of study in 2026
✓ Minimum overall average of 65%
✓ Not in receipt of any other bursary funding
✓ Not previously funded by SITA
✓ Preference given to students with disabilities and to White, Coloured and Indian applicants (to advance representation)

What's Included

✓ Full tuition fees
✓ Prescribed study materials
✓ Accommodation
✓ Meal allowance
✓ Living allowances
✓ Work-integrated learning at SITA (where applicable)
✓ Career exposure to government ICT systems

How to Apply

Steps to complete your State Information Technology Agency (SITA) bursary application

1
Visit the SITA careers portal during the application window
2
Complete the SITA bursary application form
3
Upload your supporting documents
4
Email the completed application package to [email protected]
5
Wait for shortlisting and interview invitation
6
Attend the interview if selected

Required Documents

📄 Certified ID copy
📄 Matric certificate
📄 Latest tertiary academic transcripts
📄 Proof of registration for 2026/2027 academic year
📄 Proof of household income
📄 CV
📄 Motivational letter

Frequently Asked Questions

How many SITA bursaries are awarded each year?: SITA awards 20 bursaries each year to students studying ICT-related qualifications, with a focus on building a pipeline of public-sector ICT talent.
Which fields does the SITA bursary cover?: Computer Science (including AI specialisation), Cyber Security, Data Science, Information Technology, and Diplomas in ICT Application Development or ICT Communication Networks.
What academic average is required?: You need a minimum overall average of 65% and must be registered for 2nd year of study or higher in the relevant ICT qualification.
Are there any preferences in the SITA selection process?: Preference is given to students with disabilities, and to White, Coloured and Indian students, as part of SITA's effort to advance balanced representation in the ICT pipeline.

When do 2027 applications open?

State Information Technology Agency (SITA) has not yet announced dates for the 2027 intake.

The last recorded window closed on 1 April 2026. Treat that as a guide to timing only — confirm the 2027 dates with State Information Technology Agency (SITA) before you rely on them.

Check State Information Technology Agency (SITA)'s official site

Information verified 2026-04-01. Always confirm details on the funder's official website before applying.

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